Case Studies of Successful Waste Minimisation Strategies

Process Changes: Sticky Tapes Ltd

Sticky Tapes Ltd, a West Midlands based firm produce a range of adhesive tapes for both industrial and DIY purposes. The cost of materials is very high in relation to the cost of the product.

A recycling feasibility study was devised to discover whether PVC edge trim could be recycled. The outcome of the study was that the material produced following granulation and extrusion being undertaken, could be used for certain products, one being shoe soles. It was found that the company could use the equipment already installed on site to produce the PVC granules, and just had to design a process of reprocessing. The result of the study was that waste disposal costs to landfill were drastically reduced and the reclaimed material value at that period was £40 000 per annum.

(From a case study in DTI:1992 Industry Guide to Waste minimisation for Businesses)

Preventative action and improved use of raw materials: Agreg Building Ltd

This Northern based building materials company manufacture a range of goods including moulded concrete building blocks, drainage channels, kerb stones and paving stones. A waste minimisation project was undertaken in order to prevent damage to the concrete blocks and to recycle effluent.

The statistical process control system introduced, reduced scrap blocks from 6% to 0.65%, with a reduction in waste to landfill of 3500 tonnes per year, high reductions in chromium which amounted to the discharge consent no longer being necessary. Also, improved controls over the thickness and height of slabs and blocks promoted efficient use of raw materials. The financial savings arising from the project amounted to in excess of £75 000 per year.

(Source: Leicestershire Waste Minimisation Initiative 1995)